Mazda MX-5s

Hi All,

Some of you may know that the Mazda MX-5 / Miata / Eunos Roadster just celebrated it's 25th birthday and that the new model, the ND, is about to be released. With this in mind I thought it timely that I start building some of my MX-5 collection. So the first question was; where to start?

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/MX-5%20Collection_zpsgb7z3jza.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/MX-5%20Collection_zpsgb7z3jza.jpg.html)

I decided to start with bog-stock versions of NA, NB and NC (Mk 1, 2, and 3), each in the same colour. I finally decided on a solid red and picked Tamiya's TS-49 Bright Red. Not sure if this was the ideal choice but I preferred it over the TS-8 Italian Red, which I find too dark.

Anyway, a Tamiya "Eunos Roadster" (NA), an Aoshima "Roadster RS" (NB) and Fujimi "Roadster"(NC) have been started. All bodies have been painted (photos to follow) and the NA has progressed a bit further.

I will try to update this thread as I work through the kits over the coming months. Already have a few ideas:

Garage Vary kit as trackday car with 787B inspired livery
C1 models Garage Vary transkit for an NA
13B resin motor???
Jota NC


Here is the NA awaiting finishing of body:
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2002_zps9teycccj.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2002_zps9teycccj.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2001_zpsbvk9sjcm.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2001_zpsbvk9sjcm.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2003_zpslabbspti.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2003_zpslabbspti.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2004_zpsfc02x9wo.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2004_zpsfc02x9wo.jpg.html)

Nice work so far!,i built the Aoshima version nb?,mine had both left and right hand dashboards,i had a wip on this forum,but for some reason I couldn't post pics of the finished kit.

A couple of photos of the bodies. From left to right the NA then NB then NC.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2005_zpspszoec5n.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2005_zpspszoec5n.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2006_zps2flabpir.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2006_zps2flabpir.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2007_zpslz7rlaht.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2007_zpslz7rlaht.jpg.html)

Nice collection, I would build one of them with a 13B motor. I'm interested in the Vary kit being built. Your progress looks super clean. Good luck with the builds.

Watch the fit on the NC. Maybe it was me, but there is some type of interference that can cause front of body to sit up

Watch the fit on the NC. Maybe it was me, but there is some type of interference that can cause front of body to sit up

Thanks for the tip. I am currently battling the NA. The body was warped when I got it, especially the hoop around the windscreen. Was hoping that installing the screen would hold it straight but it keeps breaking the glue. Currently being held by clips for extended glue drying time, but worried the paint might get marked. Already lost one wing-mirror!!

Cool project!

Great work so far! & Great Project!!

So the NA is mostly done. Had some problems with the windscreen as the body was warped; and the screen roll-over hoop was the worst. I had the resort to strong CA glue to get the windscreen to stay glued. Thankfully not too much damage to the paintwork. So I still have to fix the paint, and I am printing a sheet of decal numberplates that include a couple for the NA. I will do a proper photoshoot for the Completed section once the NB and NC are done as well.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2008_zpscpjgc1us.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2008_zpscpjgc1us.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2009_zpsjbidmdkw.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2009_zpsjbidmdkw.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2010_zpsdulcflay.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NA%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red%2010_zpsdulcflay.jpg.html)

Any updates on these builds?

Any updates on these builds?

I will post some updates over the weekend. Progress was slowed by buying another 1:1 MX-5; so much for building in scale to save money!!

I hope to finish the NB over the weekend. The chassis is done, the interior is is done except for instrument decal, so I just need to finish detailing the body. But as we are picking up the new 5 tomorrow....

Looking forward to seeing more! A new MX5? Pictures?? I soon will drive an ND, I really like the 2.0 liter Club model, but won't buy one until it has depreciated considerably!

Here are some recent photos of my NC, it looks close to stock but has had suspension/exhaust/tune and newer NC2 wheels:

I saw the Google Maps car in late winter...and a few months later, there I am :cwm27: :
http://media.fotki.com/1_p,rrsbwwkgdwkbdtrxdksdtwdfsd,vi/rtdsggwskxwrrtdtwdrxbwsqrwrtq/8/10258/12262494/StreetView3-vi.jpg

Here's my car next to "Blackone" TDR Jay's turbo beast NC; he had just done an ECU tune on my car in the parking garage. Seriously great upgrade.
http://media.fotki.com/1_p,rrdwrwqssbwgggkxdksdtwdfsd,vi/ftbqbksgsxsfqqbrfsdxwtdrgbktk/8/10258/12262494/BlacknRed-vi.jpg

Here are a couple from last month's Miatas At The Gap, slaying the Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee:
http://media.fotki.com/1_p,rrddgksgkkktdssxdksdtwdfsd,vi/wfqgwskgbxgrgwswsssxwwgddrsrt/8/10258/12262494/843839R2-vi.jpg
http://media.fotki.com/1_p,rrddgkskqqsqrqrxdksdtwdfsd,vi/tdbbbqbsxgswssqrtxbsqdtbfbw/8/10258/12262494/4514236129SlayerR2-vi.jpg

Your red NC looks very nice. I like the combo of the earlier NC front end with the later wheels.

"I soon will drive an ND, I really like the 2.0 liter Club model, but won't buy one until it has depreciated considerably!"

The ND has only been released in 1.5L here in Aus for the moment. The 2.0L is promised "before the end of the year" but not sure. Haven't had the chance to pour over one yet, but our NSW club is having a 25th Anniversary day soon and a local dealer is bringing some - plus of course the ones already bought by members!

We picked up our "new" NB today. It is one of the SE's (Mazdaspeed in the US), 1.8L turbo, with a few nice mods by a previous owner. Pictures to follow when it stops raining!!

Your red NC looks very nice. I like the combo of the earlier NC front end with the later wheels.

"I soon will drive an ND, I really like the 2.0 liter Club model, but won't buy one until it has depreciated considerably!"

The ND has only been released in 1.5L here in Aus for the moment. The 2.0L is promised "before the end of the year" but not sure. Haven't had the chance to pour over one yet, but our NSW club is having a 25th Anniversary day soon and a local dealer is bringing some - plus of course the ones already bought by members!

We picked up our "new" NB today. It is one of the SE's (Mazdaspeed in the US), 1.8L turbo, with a few nice mods by a previous owner. Pictures to follow when it stops raining!!

Nice! What color? My favorite is Lava Orange. I was almost ready to buy a Mazdaspeed when I realized they didn't come with cruise control...and I loved the NC when I first drove one. Hated them when new, combo of idiotic ride height and the front styling...I warmed to it over the years, and it's easy to get the ride height fixed w/better springs and Konis (or more expensive coilovers).

We only get the 2.0 engine in the ND, really wish they offered the 2.5! I'll probably sit in one tomorrow, a local Mazda dealer is having a Miata meet in the morning and they have 2 ND's, one a basic Sport. I don't think there will be any test drives, plus they are both automatic.

Nice! What color? My favorite is Lava Orange. I was almost ready to buy a Mazdaspeed when I realized they didn't come with cruise control...and I loved the NC when I first drove one. Hated them when new, combo of idiotic ride height and the front styling...I warmed to it over the years, and it's easy to get the ride height fixed w/better springs and Konis (or more expensive coilovers).

We only get the 2.0 engine in the ND, really wish they offered the 2.5! I'll probably sit in one tomorrow, a local Mazda dealer is having a Miata meet in the morning and they have 2 ND's, one a basic Sport. I don't think there will be any test drives, plus they are both automatic.

Our new girl is Sunlight Silver. Unfortunately we did not get Lava Orange here in Aus; safe to say that is the colour we covet the most!! Yeah the ride height of the MX-5s certainly is a touch high. It is interesting to compare our new SE/Mazdaspeed on its stock Bilsteins with our other NB that is running YellowSpeed coilovers with a decent drop. Having said that, the ride on the Bilsteins is a lot smoother!

Well, no work on the models as planned - the new SE took all the weekend. What a surprise!

At last some progress! The NB is basically ready; just waiting for some paint to dry before gluing the headlights and windscreen, then body on to completed chassis and interior. Photos below of where I am up to. On to the NC!

Thanks for watching.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2001_zpsvk4pw5i8.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2001_zpsvk4pw5i8.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2002_zpse6xh5jol.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2002_zpse6xh5jol.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2003_zpsiz2ce9g2.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2003_zpsiz2ce9g2.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2004_zpshpodi4en.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2004_zpshpodi4en.jpg.html)

Progress had been delayed by this...
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/SE%2001_zpsxyz6fnem.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/SE%2001_zpsxyz6fnem.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/SE%2002_zpsnvjzt7yj.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/SE%2002_zpsnvjzt7yj.jpg.html)

Coming along nice! Consider me subscribed.

It's almost odd to see that in silver; here in the US the Mazdaspeed was originally Titanium Gray or Velocity Red, then in '05 they added Black Mica and Lava Orange. I'm surprised how many Lava Orange ones I've seen, there are several locally and I nearly bought a perfect one w/factory HT before getting my NC.

Flyin' Miata makes some great upgrades to fix the various issues w/the factory turbo to make it the beast it deserves to be!

I sat in a new base-model ND a week ago, it's a neat car, smaller than the NC, you sit higher, seat is more comfortable, your head is closer to the top of the windscreen. Top operation is easier to put up than NC, harder to put down. Smaller trunk. Will drive a manual whenever they get them in.

It's almost odd to see that in silver; here in the US the Mazdaspeed was originally Titanium Gray or Velocity Red, then in '05 they added Black Mica and Lava Orange. I'm surprised how many Lava Orange ones I've seen, there are several locally and I nearly bought a perfect one w/factory HT before getting my NC.

Flyin' Miata makes some great upgrades to fix the various issues w/the factory turbo to make it the beast it deserves to be!

I sat in a new base-model ND a week ago, it's a neat car, smaller than the NC, you sit higher, seat is more comfortable, your head is closer to the top of the windscreen. Top operation is easier to put up than NC, harder to put down. Smaller trunk. Will drive a manual whenever they get them in.

I don't know the numbers (my wife would!) but the Sunlight Silver is quite common in SEs here in Aus. Previous owner had spend a lot of money on some nice performance upgrades (including Flyin' Miata) but it had has very little running since.

Interested now to see if I will fit in an ND; I am 6"5' and just fit in the NB!

Better get some Soul Red paint, looks like Tamiya's doing the new Roadster :sunglasse

They say tall people fit a bit better into the ND, the way they designed the seat to recline a bit more...it's tighter than the NC in width, but I like the close-coupled feel, though again wish they'd include a steering column that adjusts for reach as well as height. All I can say is, if you sit in a BMW Z3/Z4 or a Porsche Boxster/Cayman, they have tons more available legroom than any MX5 will ever have.

Cool news about the ND. I just saw the "Mazda Roadster" in my Hobby Search newsletter. A new kit number (24342 I think) so I was hoping for the ND rather than an NA re-release. Though I think Tamiya still make the NA, so makes more sense it is a new tooling.

Cool news about the ND. I just saw the "Mazda Roadster" in my Hobby Search newsletter. A new kit number (24342 I think) so I was hoping for the ND rather than an NA re-release. Though I think Tamiya still make the NA, so makes more sense it is a new tooling.

The previous ones were "Eunos Roadster" and "Mazda Miata", the ND is known as the Roadster in Japan, MX5 everywhere? and very little use of the name Miata anymore. That said, 99.9% sure it's the ND. Knowing so many Miata people, it's easier now to call it by the series NA, NB, NC, or ND :wink:

Cool,,,

So the NB is now completed. Again, I will do some better photos once all three are done; assembling a light box for three models is easier than one for some reason!

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2005_zps2watlctz.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2005_zps2watlctz.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2006_zpsdlcn3fn4.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2006_zpsdlcn3fn4.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2007_zpswoy9bgkc.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20bright%20red%2007_zpswoy9bgkc.jpg.html)

A few previous MX-5 model lurking in the cabinet:
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red_zpsbcl1s944.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20bright%20red_zpsbcl1s944.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20yellow%20-%20Malibu_zps19cwoo13.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NA%20yellow%20-%20Malibu_zps19cwoo13.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20metallic%20red%20-%20Garage%20Vary_zpsthxscki9.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20metallic%20red%20-%20Garage%20Vary_zpsthxscki9.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20-%20Titanium_zps4jnwi0aa.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20bright%20red/NB%20-%20Titanium_zps4jnwi0aa.jpg.html)

ND is confirmed by Yellow Submarine Akihabara store.

It will be curbside, open top only, and comes with a driver figure.
New metallic red spray paint will be released, too.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CNThPhWU8AAIJ1U.png

Excellent news; thanks for the update. Bit of a shame about curbside, but not too concerned. My wife will be disappointed if the driver figure is male only!

Too much to ask for a soft top and LHD dash?

I'm okay w/the Japanese-spec ND at least to start; they could release a LHD version w/17" wheels & the Club package for the US version later...or not. I wasn't expecting a full-blown kit for 2800 yen.

Coincidentally enough, as I was reading Hiro's post on my way to work this morning, I saw my first ND on the road.

Boo no uptop, Yay driver figure?

If history is any guide, Tamiya will make a second version with a LHD dash, hard top, and different wheels (and probably at the expense of the driver figure) down the line. But who knows.

So apart from pre-ordering three of Tamiya's new ND kits, I have made some progress on the NC. I applaud Fujimi's attempts at increasing the level of detail on this kit, and in fact the engine sits somewhere between full detail and the insert of recent Tamiya offerings. Quite a few of the under-bonnet parts are separate which at least allows for easier painting; the main issue are the fluid reservoirs at the front that that are molded in.

However..... The rear suspension setup is a nightmare. Fujimi includes real springs for working suspension. The springs are so strong they make assembly a pain, and when it is finally done the suspension will not move unless a reasonable amount of force is applied. In the end it was a case of test fit, test fit, glue, clamp, pray! I then clearly got complacent on the front end and managed to loose a spring to the Great Gods of Carpet. Of course without the spring the strut and wheel disappear in to the wheel-well, so I have glued a spacer in place at what I think will be the final ride height.

Anyway, enough prattle, here are some photos. Final assembly now should not be too long. Body details then combine with these three sub-assemblies.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2001_zpsyveufl9g.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2001_zpsyveufl9g.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2002_zpsjcaagdlf.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2002_zpsjcaagdlf.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2003_zps3a7yvykn.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2003_zps3a7yvykn.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2004_zpscpa7lx48.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2004_zpscpa7lx48.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2005_zpsty7xse3d.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2005_zpsty7xse3d.jpg.html)

I have also started on the Garage Vary NB; fitment of the bodykit is a bit "approximate". I have in mind a race/track car with an all too obvious paint scheme. Photos to come.

Looking Good!

Ah, so I have just proven once again that one should never say "Final assembly should not be too long"!!!

Fujimi say install front and rear light clusters before putting bumpers on. I always ignore this if I can, so that I can assemble the entire body before painting. Fronts were fine, but I had to trim excess plastic on the inside of the body (where bumper and body join) to allow rear lights to fit. Okay, but never fine taking a scalpel to a painted body! Then I had to do the same for the fuel cap. For some reason this is a separate part, and needed major surgery to clear the rear light clusters.

Then, much worse, the fitting of the windscreen is appalling. There are two pieces, the clear screen and a part replicating the interior of the A-pillar/roll hoop that is painted semi-gloss black. Somehow you have to install the windscreen with no locator pins or surface, hold it there with magic I assume, while you glue the second part. I am sure the screen is still not in properly.

The, the front scuttle where wipers go does not sit properly. Thankfully this can be rectified by some clamps!

The last bit that I am really dreading is that the engine bay sub assembly has not positive locator pins to affix it to the chassis prior to putting the body. However, there are four pins on the body that will hopefully line up. The best thing wold be to actually glue the engine bay to the body, but then the engine will foul attempts to attach the chassis! Wish me luck.

Bit annoyed at Fujimi right now. Up to this point I have enjoyed the kit and was really looking forward to the Mazdaspeed versions in the stash. At least I know the problems I will encounter!

Well, amazingly the NC now sits as something resembling a (mostly) finished model, not as small plastic pieces having been thrown at a brick wall and run over by the lawnmower. I have been making models for a long time and the only kit that gave me more grief when trying to attach body to chassis was the Level 3 Monogram Lotus Esprit Turbo I attempted when I was about 13.

Having got all sub assemblies together nicely and a body with a pleasing paint job, I then had to:

cut the body where the bumper glues to the body so that the rear lights could be attached
drastically trim the inside (thankfully) of the fuel cap so it would clear the rear lights
glue the interior panel of the A-pillar/rollover hoop, then glue/wedge the windscreen in place. I attempted the reverse order as suggested by the instructions first, and this did not work; just left some glue residue on the screen!
clamp the front scuttle, where wipers attach, to get it to glue in place. Unfortunately I did not realise the ends then sat a bit high, but there is now no room to get glue in to sit them down.
glue front quarter glass pieces in place using mostly the power of positive thinking
remove a previously glued trim panel from rear bumper so I could get the chassis remotely close to the mounting points on the bumper
trim a large section of the rear "diffuser" from the chassis so the body could clear during assembly. Don't you love hacking at a "finished" model during assembly?
use a small file poked through from the engine bay to push the dashboard toward the rear of the car so it would clear the windscreen and allow the body to sit down properly on the chassis. I think it is still not 100% on the driver's side, but there is alarming noises when I try to force it more.


I was worried that the engine bay sub assembly would not locate on the four pins on the body during assemble - but oddly enough this worked fine!!

Finally, once putting the bonnet on I found that the system that should allow the bonnet to shut securely did not work; all it did was made the bonnet sit high and not actually shut. So another piece had to be trimmed from the bonnet.

I just need to finish some detail painting on the now-trimmed bonnet and modify the exhaust tips to fit around the trim panel on the rear bumper.

Anyway, here are some photos. Might pull out the photobooth this weekend and do some good photos of the NA/NB/NC together.

Thanks for watching.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2006_zpsmxstetre.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2006_zpsmxstetre.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2007_zpsdjjmaldr.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2007_zpsdjjmaldr.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2008_zpsqra6nxcq.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2008_zpsqra6nxcq.jpg.html)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2009_zpsusy2b93l.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NC%20-%20bright%20red/NC%20bright%20red%2009_zpsusy2b93l.jpg.html)

So... I have finally created a "completed" thread for the MX-5 kits. The thread can be found here: Completed Thread (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=7182661&posted=1#post7182661).

Please excuse some of these initial photos, as I was experimenting with a new macro lens for my camera. Hopefully I will get better!

Since last wip update on the MX-5s I have added a few to the collection; as you do. I have received the 3 ND's. Plans for these include a bright red with silver wheels (to match the NA, NB and NC above), even though a flat red is not a factory colour. Will also do one in "Soul Red" (have Tamiya's paint for this) with black BBS wheels; an attempt to match the Kuroi styling pack. I have also added an NB Mazdaspeed and 2 NB Lucky Star Itasha kits. Plans for these include a rally car and club-day track car.

I have also started the next project. This is based on Aoshima's NB kit with Garage Vary body kit. I am going to convert this to a race car, with livery inspired by the Le Mans winning 787B. Perhaps not the most original idea (Mazda themselves released an NA in this livery in the UK), but should look good on the shelf.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Aoshima%20040904%20-%20Box%20Art%2001_zpscawefmqb.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Aoshima%20040904%20-%20Box%20Art%2001_zpscawefmqb.jpg.html)

I started with putting the body together. Aoshima helpfully removes the stock rear bumper, but the new bumper is not the neatest of fits. A little sanding and filler got it right though. The kit also includes a Mazdaspeed style half roll bar, temporarily fitted here.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2001_zpsua3pwesq.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2001_zpsua3pwesq.jpg.h tml)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2002_zpsgvvissal.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2002_zpsgvvissal.jpg.h tml)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2003_zpslrndth9g.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2003_zpslrndth9g.jpg.h tml)

I decided to create a full roll-cage. Started by designing and printing a brace for the rear. I think this looks okay, though clearly needs some filling and final prep before painting. Clears the roof okay.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2004_zpsemeurrem.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2004_zpsemeurrem.jpg.h tml)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2006_zpsrrcvj4lq.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2006_zpsrrcvj4lq.jpg.h tml)
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s287/tinytintops/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2007_zpskszojzcz.jpg (http://s155.photobucket.com/user/tinytintops/media/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20-%20Track%20Car%20787B/Mazda%20MX-5%20NB%20Track%20Car%20787B%2007_zpskszojzcz.jpg.h tml)

I think I will do the rest of the roll-cage out of standard 2mm styrene rod. Having already built one of these, I know it will need a small reduction in ride height, but otherwise should be fairly straight forward from here.

While work on the 787B-inspired NB has stalled, I have been working on other projects including one of Tamiya's ND kits. This is an excellently engineered kit, with great fitment throughout. The rear "hubs" are located by ~7 rods from at least four other parts, all of which are glued to each other, and it all fits perfectly!

This model is again painted in Tamiya TS-49 Bright Red. I know this is not a Mazda factory colour, but it ties in with my MX-5 series. ND's could be optioned with silver wheels though. I also prefer the body coloured roll hoop over the windscreen, not the gloss black of the actual NDs. The chassis detailing is to my own preference, rather than the Tamiya instructions.

I have some home-printed decals drying for the numberplates, then I can complete the final assembly.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/965/41095129474_c25dc92aa8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25Brhg5)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/957/27943607598_9212e6a106.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JzhhZU)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/827/41095130734_6a7448a1d0.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25BrhCN)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/27943609498_9e1b6784b8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JzhiyE)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/906/41095132064_ef4610b9ca.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25Bri2J)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/864/27943611968_f4f5f55dee.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jzhjif)

Good work, nice cars! I only miss the panel lines, I think they would be more realistic with that little effect.

The ND is "finished"; though taking photos I realised the centres of the exhaust tips have not been blackened. I also need to redo the numberplates as the ink ran during application. More photos in the Completed thread.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1934/44902917501_6e19110726.jpg

Very cool project.

Very cool project.

Thanks! I am about to build some replica(r)s of NDs for members of the MX-5 club I am in. A Soul Red with twin double exhausts, body kit and 18 inch aftermarket wheels and a Ceramic White which is standard other than some aftermarket wheels. Have had fun with the Tamiya spray that is supposed to replicate the Soul Red as it unsurprisingly gives quite different colours depending on the primer. Updates soon I hope.